Lahore, July 24, 2017 (PPI-OT):During the past five years Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB)’s project Plan9 incubated 160 startups, created 800 jobs, attracted $3.8 million investment and generated $3.6 million revenues. Dr. Umar Saif founding Vice Chancellor of Information Technology University (ITU) Punjab, Chairman PITB and Advisor to the CM Punjab said while addressing the concluding ceremony of Plan9’s 10th Launchpad. He said that it was encouraging that for 10th cycle more than 1000 applications received and among them 100 were shortlisted for competition, which resulted in nine declared successful for the 10th Launchpad for incubation, which was the future of Pakistan.

Dr. Umar Saif further said: “When Plan9 was established, people came in with dreams which looked improbable but we are proud that we were able to establish a platform through which they could realize their dreams. This is a platform which allows, a common Pakistani a chance to make their mark in the world. I hope the entrepreneurial ecosystem flourishes and we get to see Pakistani startups making it big in the world.” US Consul General Yuriy Fedkiw, accompanied by Ann Mason and Meghan Mercier, also attended the event.

While talking to the young entrepreneurs, he said: “I hope many of you here today will take your ideas, implement them and soon we’ll be using your products. Whether you win or lose today, keep celebrating the dreamer in you and keep pursuing your dreams.” A panel of expert judges declared Nazdeeq, Noerric, Studentary, BagAdverts, TeamUp, Her Ground, Virtual Eye, Foodappa and RC Health Care Startups as successful, which will be incubated for a period of six months.